Many small living room ideas revolve around tricking the eye into making the area appear more spacious. Such strategies can transform an area that feels cramped and claustrophobic into one that feels cozy and aesthetically pleasing. Decorate in a way that maximizes light and space, and pay attention to how you use color, scale and weight. It can make quite a difference.

One important element of mantel decorating is how you balance your objects in the space. Symmetry brings your eye across the mantel, which is better for a more streamlined, simple approach. For homes with a more classic and conservative aesthetic, this is a popular look. If you prefer a more modern style, vary the height of your accessories to achieve the look that best fits your personality.

For example, you can mix and match items such as candles, vases and other smaller decorative objects as inspiration hits. Change your decor as much as you like — not just around the holidays!